Suspected terrorists have attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing at least seven persons and abducting several others during Easter celebrations.
The assault, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, targeted two Christian worship centres, First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, throwing the community into panic as heavily armed assailants stormed the area.
The councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident, noting that details of the casualties were still being verified.
“I am currently on my way to the community to ascertain the exact number of casualties. Some sources said seven persons were killed, while others claimed eight. I will provide an update once details are confirmed,” Bawa said.
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He disclosed that the attackers arrived in large numbers, surrounding the area before opening fire on worshippers.
“The attackers came in large numbers. They surrounded the area and began shooting sporadically at worshippers. Several people were killed, while many others were taken away into the bush,” he added.
Bawa also suggested that poor telecommunications coverage in the area may have worsened the situation by delaying emergency response.
Residents said the gunmen operated for an extended period without resistance, heightening concerns over the vulnerability of rural communities to recurring attacks.
